Finding my Feet

Hello everyone! I am overjoyed to finally have a chance to write on this blog...every time I've gone to the library it seems the computers are all busy.
This first week has been an overwhelming mix of new situations, people, and experiences. It has taken a week for me to begin to feel settled in my new community, and to get a sense for how things are going to run here. My RAD group consists of six persons--three from Mennonite background, three not. We are a diverse group, and realize that we wouldn't have necessarily chosen to live in community with one another, but we all feel we have been called here together for a purpose greater than we imagine. I feel that sharing my journey of sprititual discovery, as well as cross-cultural experience, with my group members will be a necesity, challenge, and blessing.

Here are some highlights from my week:

- Spending careful time as a group developing our house/group covenant. Very important to maintain our community, and help each other grow.

-Being blindfolded, and dropped off in an unknown part of the city, with the instruction to find our way home. Sounds scary, but learning to get around the public transportation has been exhilarating. At times frustrating, but I love Chicago.

-Actually living here in Chicago is a good feeling as opposed to just visiting as a tourist. I am getting a sense of what living in a different culture is here, and seeing the real side of the city. In all its quirks, danger, violence, and beauty. There is more to Chicago than just the museums and Michagan Ave, if you can believe it.

-Starting teachings has been wonderful. Eleanor Krieder came last week and spoke on prayer. I thought is was fitting to start my journey with a focus on prayer. I am eagerly looking forward to study scripture, discussing difficult topics, and reflecting on my faith experience.

Here are some prayer requests:
-That my RAD group will continue to bond and support each other.
-Strength for me as I am tested in new situations, and in deepening my relationship with God. It won't be easy.
-For focus and clarity of thought. There is so much to soak in and process. I pray that I won't be distracted.

Thank you to all who are supporting me financially and in prayer. I too keep you in my prayers.

p.s. I haven't figured out how to post photos here yet, but hopefully someone with better computer skills can help me there.

Until next time,
Andrea